I'm not sure that's true? Gatekeeping is definitely about keeping out/removing, but that doesn't mean that it has zero or negative value?

For example, there's absolutely positive value for users in filtering spam. This tends to be negative value for spam senders, but that doesn't detract from the user value.

The fact that you phrase this in such a binary fashion invalidates your point. Decisions are never so one sided.

Apple's version of gatekeeping is a balance between providing a user experience that they control and design, and managing/controlling competition.

Keeping out bad (in their opinion) UX constitutes the valid part of their gatekeeping because it subtracts negative value, which almost amounts to adding value, but is subtly different, like I said. Keeping out competition is a little harder to justify since it presumably only benefits them. And that does tend to be a temptation for all gatekeepers. But in neither case is value really being added directly, was my only point.

Agree it's a subtle difference.

It reminds me of the internet filters at large companies. Keeps out the filth and bad actors at the detriment of being on a truly free internet. That makes sense when it's the companies computers.

But not so much when you own the device.

Not subtle - a fundamental point. Thank you for putting it so succinctly, rdiddly.